Direct flights from Seoul, Tokyo, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Beijing. Visa-free for most Western passports. The practical guide to landing in Ulaanbaatar.
Chingun O.
Ulaanbaatar is easier to reach than most travellers assume. Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN) — new terminal opened 2021 — receives direct flights from six continents.
Seoul Incheon (3.5 hrs) on Korean Air and MIAT — our recommended gateway. Tokyo Narita (4 hrs) on MIAT. Istanbul (7 hrs) on Turkish Airlines — the easiest route from Europe. Frankfurt (8 hrs) seasonal on MIAT. Beijing (2.5 hrs) on Air China. Bangkok (6 hrs) on MIAT. Moscow, Hong Kong, and Bishkek also have direct service.
Mongolia offers visa-free entry for passport holders of: United States, Canada, most of EU including UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Nordic countries, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kazakhstan, Russia, Turkey — for stays up to 30 days. Check your specific country at consul.mn before flying.
If your country is not on the list, e-Visa is available at e-mongolia.mn — 24 to 48 hour processing, no consulate required.
Landing at UBN is calm. Immigration takes 10-15 minutes. Baggage claim another 10. Customs is a walk-through. SIM cards (Mobicom, Unitel, Skytel) are available at kiosks in the arrivals hall, around $10 for 10GB.
We meet every Rara Avis guest in arrivals with a named sign. The drive into central UB is 45 minutes through the city. Our lead guide greets you, luggage goes in the vehicle, tea is already warm in the back.
Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is required for our expeditions and strongly recommended for tours. We can recommend providers.